FOR the first time in its history, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (BDBC) flew the rainbow colours of the Pride flag from its civic offices to show its support for Hampshire Pride.

The bright flag has been raised as the council shows its support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in the borough and as part of the week-long Hampshire Pride – which will see its celebrations conclude on Friday at Winchester Guild Hall.

The request to have the flag flown at the offices was put in by representatives of the new Basingstoke-based initiative Pride245, an organisation set up by local volunteers with its core focus on education, celebration and inclusion.

Co-chairman of the group and local councillor Simon Bound hailed the council’s decision to fly the Pride flag.

He said: “I think we should not underestimate the importance of the flag flying for the first time in the borough.

“As a borough we believe to be inclusive so this is symbolic to the LGBT community in showing our support and demonstrate the importance of inclusion.”

Cllr Bound added: “On a personal note, when I was sent a picture of the flag, all I could feel was goosebumps. I couldn’t believe it had been put up.”

The rainbow flag is a symbol of LGBT pride and social movements.

It is believe that its colouring was inspired by Judy Garland’s singing of Over the Rainbow from classic film The Wizard of Oz.

Melbourne Barrett, chief executive of BDBC, said: “BDBC supports diversity, inclusivity and equality and therefore we are delighted to be supporting Hampshire Pride by flying the rainbow flag.”

Pride245 announced earlier this month, it planned to help create the borough’s first Pride event, which would celebrate LGBT culture.

Terri Reid, deputy leader of BDBC and portfolio holder of Arts and Heritage, said: “I think it’s fantastic that, now with the preparations for our very own Pride event, the flag is raised.

“It is a very small gesture but very symbolic and I think it gives a strong message that we are inclusive.”

Pride245 will continue its discussions on future events at its next meeting at Chute House in Church Street from 5.30pm on Monday, March 20.

To find out more visit facebook. com/Pride245.